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haircut

If You’re Over 65, This Hairstyle Is Aging You, Experts Say

January 18, 2022 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

LEARN THE ONE CUT EVERY STYLIST SAYS YOU SHOULD SKIP

older woman in mirror

There’s a lot to look forward to after turning 65. With fewer career commitments, you can focus more on the people and activities that matter most. As you do that, you may want to tweak your appearance to ensure you feel your best—and an easy way to do that is with a new hairstyle. The options for evolving your look are endless (and no, you don’t need to go the old chop-and-perm route). However, there are a few mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Read on to discover which hairstyle you should skip after 65, according to stylists.

After 65, avoid long, non-layered cuts.

older woman with long hair on sailboad

Blunt, tumbling tresses may have been your signature look in decades past, but now, they could be weighing you down. “Long straight hair can sharpen the features rather than soften them,” says Gina Rivera, a professional hairstylist and founder of Phenix Salon Suites. “A good guideline for mature beauties is to select a look that softens.” Rivera notes that face-framing layers are great for this purpose. Other options include long, textured bangs or a layered bob or collarbone cut.

If you’re unsure where to start, fear not—you’ll likely want to work with an expert regardless. “Each person is an individual, as are their features,” says Rivera. “That said, it’s best to work with a salon professional who is trained to look at facial shapes and features and can assist with selecting the right style.”

Be careful with color.

older professional woman with brown hair smiling

Color can be equally important as a cut. A fabulous dye job can transform your appearance. Unfortunately, so can a sub-par one. “Coloring your hair at home can make it look flat and without any luster,” says Sanda Petrut, a hair stylist at Maxine Salon. Instead, you may want to splurge on salon services. That way, your colorist can ensure you walk away with shiny, dimensional color.

Deciding on the right hue is also important. Petrut notes that going too dark can have an aging effect. A cool-toned look can have a similar impact. “Ash highlights, especially with bleach [can age you],” says Andrea Claire, a licensed hairstylist and makeup artist. “You want to keep warmth in the hair which adds shine and a youthful vibrance.” Your stylist will have ideas for choosing the best shade for you.

Skip the ponytail.

Older Woman with white hair wears earrings, diy hacks

Ponytails are simple and convenient. However, they can also harm your hair. “The very tight ponytail can cause damage to the hair and make it look thin and brittle,” says Laura Roncagli, a professional hairstylist and co-founder of MyBeautik.com. The style often leads to breakage, hair loss, and even a receding hairline.

Thankfully, you can still sport the style—you’ll just want to reimagine it. In order to prevent damage, keep your ponytail loose, use fabric hair ties, and avoid tying your hair when it’s wet. You’ll also want to sleep with your hair down to give your strands a break.

Ponytails are simple and convenient. However, they can also harm your hair. “The very tight ponytail can cause damage to the hair and make it look thin and brittle,” says Laura Roncagli, a professional hairstylist and co-founder of MyBeautik.com. The style often leads to breakage, hair loss, and even a receding hairline.

Thankfully, you can still sport the style—you’ll just want to reimagine it. In order to prevent damage, keep your ponytail loose, use fabric hair ties, and avoid tying your hair when it’s wet. You’ll also want to sleep with your hair down to give your strands a break.

Treat yourself to new products.

bottles in shower caddy

The best part about elevating your haircare routine is splurging on new products. Petrut notes that because mature strands tend to be drier and thinner, a quality hydrating shampoo, conditioner, and heat protectant is a must. Vitamins and specialized treatments can also strengthen the hair, she says.

Additionally, you’ll want to invest in products that promote hair health. For example, a microfiber towel will prevent friction and frizz and a brush with flexible bristles will help you detangle without causing damage. Now that you’ve got your cut, color, and styling products in place, you’ll be well on your way to gorgeous hair you can enjoy for decades to come.

Credit to: JULIANA LABIANCA for bestlifeonline.com

Filed Under: Uncategorized Tagged With: haircare, haircut, hairstyle, healthyhair, over65

Introducing the Calligraphy Haircut—the Easiest Way to Add Texture and Body to Fine Hair

December 1, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Haircutting trends come and go but haircutting techniques are far less common. When we heard about the calligraphy cut, we were instantly intrigued and conjured images of 19th-century calligraphers in full palatial garb hacking away at our manes. Turns out, we weren’t terribly off. Here’s how the technique is done and what you need to know before asking for it or trying it out yourself… if you’re feeling bold.

“A calligraphy haircut is a form of haircutting that utilizes a cutting knife, referred to as a calligraphy pen, rather than a pair of shears,” explains salon owner and pro stylist Gina Rivera.

What Is the Calligraphy Haircut?

The technique skews on the difficult side because it requires mastery of a whole new tool. “While my father and my uncle were both highly experienced in razor cuts, it’s always exciting to see the tools of the trade increased and expanded. The calligraphy cut technique utilizes a specialized calligraph cutting knife that uniquely cuts hair at a 21-degree angle by slicing it. The technique does not utilize shears,” says Gina.

“The calligraphy haircut is a cool and unique way to add texture to the hair while also adding body and movement,” says Ramon Garcia, celeb stylist (and my stylist, shout out!) at Ramirez Tran salon.

Who Should Try a Calligraphy Cut?

As it adds so much movement, it’s a game-changer for ladies with thin manes. “This cut is fabulous for creating volume and works especially well for those that wear a bob, big waves, or even a sleek look,” explains Gina.

The reason it maximizes sleekness boils down to how the technique is carried out. “The calligraphy cut eliminates split ends because the cutting surface is very smooth. This can contribute to strength and shine as well.”

If this cut sounds too good to be true, it gets even better. “Some that wear this look even report that it can make the hair appear longer,” Gina continues.

How to Get the Calligraphy Cut

As it’s not reached the saturation point, you should be discerning about who does the cut. “It’s very important to have a professional administer this cut because this is not a look that you want just anyone to create. It should be someone who has strong knowledge of the technique and professional experience. There are different levels of calligraphy pens denoted by the finish—black, silver, or gold. The colors indicate the level of experience the professional has achieved with the cutting technique with gold being the highest.”

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is a calligraphy haircut? If your hairdresser swaps out their scissors for a cutting pen, they’re likely sculpting your strands  into a calligraphy cut. The idea is to help the hair absorb more moisture and conditioner so it’s fuller and bouncier. It’s great if you’re embarking on a growout, but still need to clean up your ends without losing length. 
  • Is a calligraphy cut worth it? Calligraphy cuts are particularly impactful for straight and wavy hair. If you’re looking to add volume and the appearance of length, this is the service you want to book.
  • Is a calligraphy cut good for curly hair? Though calligraphy cuts work for most hair types, there are better techniques to showcase your thick or curly hair. 

What is a hairdressing Calligraphy Pen? The tool looks like a small, angled knife which slices your on a diagonal.

Credit to: Emilie Branch for maneaddicts.com

Filed Under: Article, Hair Care, Stylist Tagged With: calligraphy, callligraphyhaircut, haircut, hairtrend

TIP OF THE WEEK – How to help your child feel comfortable with getting a haircut

June 22, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Most of us have encountered the small child that is afraid of having their haircut and possibly even visiting the salon. Here’s some of my tips for handling your littlest clients.

  • When the child arrives introduce yourself and take them on a mini tour where you explain what takes place in each part of the salon. (Note: start with the salon chair, visit the washbowl, show the scissors and the hair dryer)
  • Make sure to ask if they have questions and strive to answer all of them.
  • Keep an extra child’s shirt on hand in case the child refuses to wear the cape. (Hint: You can always describe the cape as a Superhero cape to get them more on board).
  • Explain to the child that they’re getting their hair “styled” or trimmed”. It’s best to avoid using the word “cut” as this can sound scary.
  • Keep a small treasure box on hand and allow the child to draw a gift at the end of the appointment if they behave and are brave.

Filed Under: Business, Barber, Business, Hair Care, Lifestyle Tagged With: child, children, haircut, haircutsforchildren

The One Haircut You Should Avoid Over 40 Because It Makes You Look 10 Years Older

January 21, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

Never underestimate the power of a great haircut to make you look your best at any age. However, having the wrong style for your face can definitely give you a dated look and add years to your appearance. In the latest post from shefinds.com, Gina Rivera and other expert stylists weigh in on this one haircut that you should avoid if you are over 40, while also giving you advice on how to work with your stylist to come with a haircut that works with your features and overall style.

To read the full post, click here.

Gina Rivera

Gina Rivera

Beauty Icon and Expert

Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

    Credit to: Merrell Readman

    Filed Under: Lifestyle, Hair Care Tagged With: haircut, hairstyle, over40

    The Ultimate Winter Skincare Guide: Hot Tips for Cold Weather

    January 20, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

    Winter months can be brutal on your skin. Even if you aren’t normally prone to dryness or flaking, freak-outs rise as temps drop. Between those blustery breezes and indoor heater, your skin can’t win. Hanging onto moisture can be a full-time job, and no skin type is immune.

    How pervasive is it? CeraVe conducted a Harris Poll of 2,000 U.S. adults and found, “83 percent of Americans said their skin feels differently during the winter than it does the rest of the year … More specifically, 77 percent say their skin feels dry in winter and 41 percent even describe it as itchy.”

    Are you one of them? Use this winter skincare guide to ease dryness and discomfort, while keeping your skin healthy all season long. 

    Why should you change your skincare routine in winter? 

    Your skincare routine isn’t meant to stay the same year-round. Just like your wardrobe, it is seasonally specific.   

    What many people don’t realize is that their regular regimen may very well be compounding common winter skincare issues like redness, dryness, and itching. And while you may not be able to avoid moisture-zapping winds and heaters, you can (and should) take steps to replenish what you’ve lost. 

    What changes should you make to care for winter skin? 

    Knowing how to take care of skin in winter is the first step to salvaging the oils that protect its natural barrier. Effective cold-weather skincare requires making some intentional changes to the products you use, fabrics you wear, and ways you warm up. 

    1. Switch up your cleanser. We’ve been conditioned to believe that only frothy, foaming cleansers are capable of getting us really clean. Truth is, soaps can often strip skin of more moisture than they give back. Prioritizing your winter body skincare means banishing bar soaps with irritating ingredients or perfumes. Opt for moisturizing, fragrance-free oatmeal cleansers or oil-based gels over ‘unscented’ soaps, which often still contain traces of fragrance. 
    2. Modify your skincare routine. After you’ve found a good balm, oil, or cream cleanser for your face, modify your next steps, too. Good face care in winter means ditching astringents or toners with alcohol and layering serums to lock in moisture. Try adding a hyaluronic acid in the morning and an oil or sleeping mask at night after you moisturize. Be sure to exfoliate at least once a week to remove dead, dry skin, so products can penetrate more deeply. 
    3. Get a thicker moisturizer. Even if you have oily skin, you’ll probably need to add in a cream-based moisturizer instead of a lotion alone during the coldest months of the year. As Dr. Hadley King, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City, explains in RealSimple: “While humectants may have been sufficient to keep the skin hydrated during humid months, emollients and occlusives will be more important during low-humidity conditions.” To review: Humectants (like hyaluronic acid) extract moisture from the air and fuse it to the skin. Emollients (think: lotions and the like) protect the skin’s natural barrier. And oily, waxy occlusive form a protective layer that locks in moisture. Heavier, winter-proof moisturizers will contain some of each. 
    4. Keep wearing sunscreen. When it comes to sunscreen, skincare in the winter really isn’t much different than the summer. You need to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least 30 SPF every day. No exceptions. In snowier climates, frozen precipitation can reflect up to 80% of the sun’s rays! 
    5. Invest in a humidifier. Humidifiers pump extra moisture into the air via tiny water droplets. Not only are they good for keeping your sinuses, nasal passages, and lungs healthy, the steam they release can do wonders for your skin. They’re especially impactful at night when skin is in the regenerative stage of its circadian cycle. 
    6. Turn down the thermostat. Even if you’ve perfected your skincare in winter, it won’t matter much if all you do is sit under a constantly running heater or roaring fire. Both can severely dehydrate skin, no matter how many skincare products you change out. Instead, heat your home to a comfortable 72 degrees or lower. Keeping the thermostat set at a consistent 68 degrees can also save you money for more skincare products or facial treatments! 
    7. Avoid long, hot showers. This one can be a tough pill to swallow, but as contradictory as it sounds hot showers can really do a number on your skin. Hot water can easily strip away protective oils, so keep showers or baths to about 10 minutes and wash with lukewarm water.  
    8. Wear natural fabrics. Add more natural fabrics to your winter skincare checklist. While warm, wool is a known irritant for most skin types. Switching out sweaters for cashmere or fleece can help you stay warm without the excessive itch. If you do want to keep wearing your favorite winter wool, try putting a layer of silk or cotton thermals between. 
    9. Change out of wet clothes ASAP. Whether you’re building a snowman, making snow angels, or just getting caught in an unexpected downpour, make sure you don’t stay in wet winter gear. Moist gloves, socks, and hats can cause skin to chap. 
    10. Stay hydrated! Remember that dewy, hydrated skin starts from the inside out. Your skin can’t hang onto moisture it doesn’t have. So drink your daily 8+ glasses of water (or hot tea) to keep skin supple. 

    Any number of these tips should create huge shifts in caring for winter skin. If you’re still experiencing issues, a 1% hydrocortisone cream or a visit to the dermatologist may be your next step. 

    xoxo,

    Gina

    This article does not contain medical advice and the information herein should not replace a consultation with a physician. See your doctor or a professional esthetician for skin care assistance personalized to your needs.

    Click on the Skin Care tab on ginasplatform.com to find the best skin care salons in your area or use the Gina’s Platform app to find an esthetician near you.

    Gina Rivera

    Gina Rivera

    Beauty Icon and Expert

    Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

      Filed Under: Business, Hair Care, Lifestyle Tagged With: hair style, hair texture, haircut, low-maintenance

      20 Low-Maintenance Haircuts for Every Texture

      January 16, 2021 by Noelle Sim Leave a Comment

      In the latest post from byrdie.com, Gina Rivera and other expert stylists weigh in on 20 of the best low-maintenance haircuts for your hair type. From the stylish pixie to the layered bob, these wash and go cuts are perfect for making you look great in the least amount of time.

      To read the full article, click here.

      Credit to: Devon Hopp

      Gina Rivera

      Gina Rivera

      Beauty Icon and Expert

      Gina Rivera skyrocketed to success when the company she founded in 2007, Phenix Salon Suites, became the fastest-growing salon suite company in the beauty industry. With more than 300 locations nationally and international expansion occurring in the UK, Entrepreneur Magazine named Phenix Salon Suites a Top 500 Franchise list seven years running.

        Filed Under: Business, Hair Care, Lifestyle Tagged With: hair style, hair texture, haircut, low-maintenance

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